African aviation experts are calling for a distinct liberalisation process for air cargo within the framework of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). They emphasize that cargo, which accounts for approximately 65% of global air freight, functions largely independently of passenger schedules and plays a vital role in regional and international trade, supporting industries, and economic development across the continent.
Raafat, Air Cargo Manager at Cairo Airport Company, highlighted the necessity of separating cargo liberalisation from passenger matters. He noted, "We need to separate the liberalisation process from passenger matters. We need to separate cargo from this issue. 65% of the total movement of the global air cargo industry is moved by freighters." He advocates for a phased, step-by-step approach allowing African countries to trial cargo-specific traffic rights and implement digital customs solutions like e-AWB, which would facilitate faster approvals and reduce delays.
The focus on cargo is driven by its strategic importance: enabling the movement of high-value, perishable, and industrial goods, and supporting the burgeoning e-commerce sector. Experts believe that giving cargo its own regulatory lane would accelerate industrial development, lower logistics costs, and improve overall supply chain reliability. This approach aligns with broader regional integration goals and could foster economic resilience, trade expansion, and industrial growth throughout Africa.
In conclusion, advocates argue that liberalising air cargo independently is not just an operational necessity but a crucial infrastructure improvement to boost Africa’s trade capacity, regional connectivity, and economic integration, ultimately unlocking the continent’s full trade potential.
